Dugongidae

The Dugongidae family contains only one living species, the dugong (Dugong dugon). This marine mammal inhabits warm coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, feeding on seagrasses. Dugongs are similar to manatees but can be distinguished by their notched tail and the tusklike incisors found in males. They are generally slow-moving and can live up to 73 years.

Dugongs are the sole living members of the Dugongidae family, which also includes the extinct Steller's sea cow. This family, along with the manatee family (Trichechidae), makes up the mammalian order Sirenia. Sirenians are believed to be the basis for mermaid myths.

Dugongs are classified as a vulnerable species due to threats such as hunting, habitat degradation, entanglement in fishing nets, and collisions with boats. Their low reproductive rates make it difficult for populations to recover from these pressures.